In the blink of an eye we're already moving swiftly through 2017.
But we have an important question for you: Have you decided on your next vacation yet?
We know, with all the incredibly exciting places ready and waiting for you, it can be pretty hard to narrow it down to just one (or two…or three).
Luckily we've got the Condé Nast Traveler list that does just that with editor-endorsed destinations. They’ve compiled the Best Places to Travel in 2017 for your viewing, daydreaming and planning pleasure.
Here are our favorite 10 destinations. With some added tips, you’ll be set up nicely for an exciting year of travel–whether in your own neck of the woods or across the globe.
CANADA
Our great northern neighbor should be seeing a lot of visitors this year. And we're not even focused on just one city. While Canadians celebrate Canada's 150th anniversary of Confederation, they've decided to open up their gorgeous country to everyone, starting with the Discovery Pass, which grants free entry into every national park throughout 2017! Aside from Canada's famous natural beauty, this country also boasts amazing food, dazzling nightlife and serene escapes. It's the perfect place to visit when you want a little taste of everything.
What to Eat: Poutine! This Montreal delicacy of fries, gravy and cheese curds leaves us booking our next trip STAT.
THE AMERICAN MIDWEST
Known for its grasslands and home to four of the five Great Lakes (Lake Ontario is a tad too east), the Midwest is set to see an increase in visitors this year. Whether you're looking to try some deep dish pizza in Chicago or gaze up at Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills, whether you're looking to go on a Milwaukee beer tour or check out the Indy 500, the Midwest is chock full of down-home American things to do.
What to Do: Ready for a good hike? Check out the Palisades State Park in Garretson, South Dakota. This small park near Sioux Falls showcases the gorgeous Split Rock Creek. Though the trails are short, the challenging terrain and breathtkaing views make it worthwhile.
CUBA
Seeing an influx of American vacationers for the first time in decades, more and more travelers are venturing to this time-capsuled country. While Havana is the most popular destination, be inspired to venture out into the surrounding countryside to give yourself an even more authentic Cuban experience. Find out for yourself if it's true that Cuba has the best beaches in the Caribbean.
What to Eat: El Alba in Santa Clara is a paladares, or small, family-run restaurant. This is one of the best ways to enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine.
BERMUDA
Voted the "Best Island in the Caribbean/Atlantic" 18 times since 1994 by Condé Nast Traveler readers, Bermuda is easily one of the best picks of 2017, or any year for that matter. Enjoy the sapphire waters and sandy beaches, explore caves and jump off cliffs. Bermuda is an experience that everybody can, and should, enjoy.
Where to Stay: The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club just underwent a $100 million renovation. Experience it for yourself.
ATHENS
This old city is bringing a new game to Europe. With boutique hotels, the recently opened $623 million Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, which houses the National Opera and the National Library of Greece, and the newly reopened National Museum of Contemporary Art, there's lots to do and see for the creative people out there.
What to Eat: The souvlaki at O Kostas. You're welcome!
SCOTLAND
Move over, Iceland, there's a new travel trend in town. With a food scene that can rival the uniqueness of Brooklyn to the medieval architecture and cobblestone streets of Edinburgh, there's a special feeling in the air when you're exploring Scotland. You can find white sand beaches (who knew!?), a gritty underground music and art scene, rich history and, of course, the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.
What to Do: Canoe with the Loch Ness Monster.
RWANDA
This African country is brimming with adventure. Known for its breathtaking scenery and wildlife inhabitants, those looking to embark on a safari tend to find themselves in Rwanda. With an impressive food scene, beautiful lodges and a renewed commitment to community development, this is one trip that you'll remember for the rest of your life.
Where to Stay: Set to open in June 2017, the Bistate Lodge will be located in an eroded volcano, with the best location for "a holistic gorilla experience."
PORTUGAL
With a huge bounce-back from the 2008 global recession that left many Portuguese in hard times, Portugal is dazzling in 2017. With groundbreaking architecture springing up seemingly on a daily basis and abandoned factories being transformed into art halls, Portugal is buzzing with local artists and new visitors.
What to Do: Pay a visit to the Museum for Art, Architecture, and Technology, recently opened on the banks of the Tagus River.
CROATIA'S COAST
This picture-perfect coastline of the Adriatic Sea brings pristine waters and tranquil fishing villages. Mountainous islands can be explored by scooter or you can visit an increasinly popular wine trail.
Where to Go: The small village of Vis, a short three-hour ferry ride away from Split, is a peaceful little island with fresh sea food, exotic coves and zero crowds.
NEW ZEALAND
With the launch of new daily direct flights from San Francisco, L.A. and Houston, New Zealand is much easier to get to than in years past. With magnificent landscapes and rocky coastlines, New Zealand packs a punch full of adventure. Go skydiving, bungee jumping, skiing or jet boating. Spend the days in wine country and the evenings stargazing. There's so much to do here, you'll never want to leave!
Where to Stay: The new Helena Bay Resort, located right on the beach, is New Zealand's only luxury lodge.
Where are you traveling to this year? Let us know!
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